Senior News Line

More seniors are choosing the higher quality Medicare Advantage plans, according to a news release by Health and Human Services Department. Now, for the fourth year, that number is expected to increase. The average monthly premium is expected to go up just $1.64, which will bring it to $32.60 a month, with more than 99 percent of beneficiaries having access to a plan.

Medicare Advantage plans often (but not always) include Part D prescription plans, as well as expanded health coverage that the original Medicare doesn’t cover. The Part D prescription drug plan will be approximately $31 for the fourth year in a row.

Open enrollment starts Oct. 15 and closes Dec. 7 for health and drug plans. Plans change from year to year, and so do individual needs. Take some time to research the plans to make sure you get what you need.

If you need help picking out a plan, call 1-800-633-4227 for more information. Or you can go online and compare plans at cms.gov (click on Medicare) or at medicare.gov (click Sign Up/Change Plans).

Remember: If you already have Medicare, you do not need to enroll in Obamacare. (Hang up on the scammers who call.)

Had your flu shot yet?

Have you had your flu shot this year? According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, flu season could start as early as October. There are differences in vaccines this year. There are “trivalent” vaccines with three vaccines, “quadrivalent” vaccines with four types and a high-dose trivalent for seniors age 65 and older. Ask your doctor which you should have. There won’t be nearly as many doses of the quadrivalent vaccine available. The CDC website explains the differences in these vaccines, but doesn’t explain why there are two types this year.

Matilda Charles regrets that she cannot personally answer reader questions, but will incorporate them into her column whenever possible. Send emails to [email protected]. © 2013 King Features Synd. Inc.